Corey Seager Undergoes MRI on Back Injury, Sits Out Astros Series
The Texas Rangers sent shortstop Corey Seager to see the team's back specialist earlier this week, per Jeff Wilson of DLLS Sports. Seager missed all three games of the weekend series against the Houston Astros, and the team is now awaiting the results of an MRI.
Seager has not played since Wednesday. He appeared in 42 of the Rangers' 43 games before the back issue arose. The 32-year-old is currently in a 0-for-27 slump, slashing .179/.286/.353 across 182 plate appearances. His 80 wRC+ is the lowest of his MLB career.
Concerning Metrics Below Career Norms
It remains unclear when the injury began, but Seager's Statcast metrics are notably below his usual standards:
- Hard-hit rate: 45.4% (above average, but below his career average of 50+% over the past three seasons)
- Barrel rate: Steady, but average exit velocity is nearly 2 mph lower than in 2025
- Strikeout rate: A career-high 27.5% (his first time above 20% since 2017)
- Swinging-strike rate: A career-worst 16.2%
- Contact rate: 68.0% — the 12th-lowest among qualified hitters
A Storied Career, Interrupted by Injury
Seager signed a 10-year, $300 million contract with Texas before the 2022 season. He has been highly productive, finishing second in MVP voting in 2023 and earning World Series MVP that year. He posted a wRC+ of 138 or better in each of the past three seasons.
Injuries have been a persistent theme throughout his career. After playing 151 games in 2022, Seager has missed time with thumb, sports hernia, and hamstring issues. An appendectomy cost him most of September 2023, and soft tissue injuries have been common.
Who Fills the Void?
Ezequiel Duran has started at shortstop in Seager's absence. Duran is slashing .270/.339/.441 with three home runs and four stolen bases. He has experience at every infield position except first base, as well as both corner outfield spots. Defensively, Duran has recorded +5 Outs Above Average and -2 Defensive Runs Saved at shortstop in his career.
Injury Shakes Up Depth Chart
Top prospect Sebastian Walcott is expected to miss most of the season after undergoing an internal brace procedure on his elbow. Prospect Cameron Cauley has started at least seven games at four positions this year at Triple-A, including shortstop, but holds an 82 wRC+ with Round Rock.